Chapter 5 DefensiveDriving

Standard Accident-Prevention Formula Be Alert - Never think the other driver will not make a driving mistake. Be Prepared - Learn what to do in any case that requires a quick driving decision. Act in Time - Try not to panic. Know what to do if something happens quickly.

Keep a Space Cushion Tailgating is following too closely behind the vehicle directly in front. Keep sufficient space between all cars on every side. Stay in the middle of the lane. Make sure there is enough room ahead to stop or pass safely.

Changing Lanes and Passing Keep the points listed below in mind when passing or changing lanes: only pass or change lanes if necessary only pass if it can be completed without speeding keep a safe following distance, do not tailgate check traffic ahead and behind only pass when road signs and pavement markings permit signal every lane change tap horn, if necessary, to signal the driver ahead, except in business or residential zones return to the right lane only when ahead of the vehicle being passed, usually when the passed vehicle can be viewed in the rearview mirror. cancel the turn signal

Being Passed When an approaching motorist passes, be careful. Stay in the proper lane. Consider slowing down to make the pass easier. Return to normal speed after the approaching motorist has passed.

Following Distance One Car-Length Method   keep one car length behind another vehicle (about 20 feet) for each ten miles per hour of speed. Two-Second Rule  choose a fixed object, such as a sign or a tree, ahead of the car directly ahead.  Make sure locating the object does not cause any distraction.  At least two seconds should elapse between the two cars passing the sign or tree.

Road Conditions Wet Roads - Drive more slowly on wet roads. Stopping and turning should be completed with care. Increase the two- second rule to four or more seconds.

Rain Road surfaces are most slippery during the first few minutes of a rainfall. When driving through a water puddle, test the brakes by pumping them.

Hydroplaning Wet road surfaces can cause tires to hydroplane, or ride up on a film of water starting at about 35 mph, which could cause a driver to lose control

Snow and Ice Before driving in cold weather, let the vehicle warm up. Remove all snow and ice from the car, including from on the roof. In New Jersey, motorists are liable if ice flies from a vehicle and causes death, injury or property damage. Always make sure the vehicle has windshield wiper fluid.

Reduced Visibility Fog   Slow down while driving in fog, whether it is day or night.   Keep headlights on low beam.   Use fog lights if they are available. Sun glare   Adjust sun visors for increased   visibility, hold the steering wheel firmly and slow down.   Watch for lane markings.

Night Driving To remain safe while driving at night, keep a safe speed and drive within the range of the headlights. This range will be about 500 feet on high beam and 350 feet on low beam. Always be able to stop within those distances.

Michael Dragonetti, 17